Founded in 2000 by American twins Steve and Dave Jolliffe as a way to spice up their driving range practice sessions, Dubai-bound Topgolf now operates at 58 venues around the globe and entertains more than 15 million people annually.
In arguably the most significant development for the game in the Middle East for more than 30 years, Topgolf is coming to Dubai. The Emirate has been home to the region’s first grass course since 1988, and is the trailblazer once more with a three-level, 60,000sq foot Topgolf Dubai in development at the Emirates Hills venue off Sheikh Zayed Road. The Dubai venue is the largest international Topgolf, and brings a slice of Vegas to the Emirate along with its famous party atmosphere to the royal and ancient game.
Played to the backdrop of music in a souped-up, floodlit driving range, players hit microchipped balls to targets where accuracy and distance are rewarded in a series of different points scoring games. Results are instantly flashed up on big-screen TVs in climate-controlled hitting bays where participants also enjoy food and beverage.
RELATED: Topgolf Dubai finally set to open
It promises a much-needed participation boost for the game in a region where golf doesn’t come cheap. Whereas traditional forms of the game can be an intimidating experience for newcomers, non-golfers have flocked to Topgolf given its less formal, family-friendly and fun first ethos.
If you’ve never tried Topgolf, here’s a summary on what’s going on inside venues around the world:
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What is Topgolf Dubai?
The venue will feature a three-story driving range with multiple dining outlets, bars and hospitality spaces. The range is populated by over 90 bays which you group can rent by the hour. Each bay is essentially a private driving range tee with a waiting staff. Six can play at a time.
What skill level is required?
If you’re a skilled golfer, the games present a novel if accessible challenge. But if you’re new to golf, intermediate or not very good, it’s stress-free because it’s an all-inclusive environment.
What sort of games do you play?
Topgolf offers multiple game options but the most popular is simply called “Topgolf.” It’s basically a driving-range with target practice. Players aim at one of several enormous targets scattered around the range. The more accurate your shot and the farther away the target, the more points you score.
Can you bring your own clubs?
The serious golfer can bring their own clubs, although the venue does provide clubs that are suitable for all ages and abilities which are included with the bay fee.
When will it open?
Watch this space. Anyone can keep up to date on the latest developments by following the Topgolf Dubai Instagram page @TopgolfDubai
